Before you sign in

  • Have verification ready: the IRS requires strong identity verification before giving access to account details. Follow the sign-in instructions at the IRS Online Account page (you’ll provide personal data and proof of identity) IRS Online Account.
  • Use a private device and a secure network. Enable two-factor authentication if prompted.

Key sections you’ll see and how to read them

  • Account balance — This is the IRS’s current view of what you owe (including penalties and interest). If the balance surprises you, don’t assume it’s final: compare it to your records and recent payments.

  • Payment history and scheduled payments — Look for posted payments, returned/failed payments, and scheduled withdrawals. Verify dates and amounts match your bank or payment confirmation.

  • Refund status — The account shows whether a refund is processed, issued, or delayed. If a refund is missing or offset, see the IRS notes here and the refund-offset guidance (more on causes below).

  • Payment plans and agreements — If you have an installment agreement, the portal displays plan terms and next due date. Use the account to make online payments or manage a payment plan (see our guide on building a successful IRS payment plan).

  • Tax records and transcripts — The online account gives access to some tax records and directions to request transcripts when you need complete return data. If you need a full transcript for a lender or audit, follow transcript request steps.

Quick reading checklist (5 minutes)

  1. Confirm the tax year(s) shown match the year you’re checking.
  2. Match each listed payment to your bank/credit record.
  3. Note any unpaid balance, penalty, or interest lines and the date assessed.
  4. If a refund was reduced or offset, check the IRS note and next steps.
  5. Save or screenshot important pages and download any available documents.

Common issues and what to do

  • Discrepancies in income or withholding: order a tax transcript and correct errors with your employer or the IRS as needed. See: How to Obtain a Tax Transcript and When Lenders or Agencies Require One (internal link).
  • Unexpected refund offsets: refunds can be applied to past-due federal or state debts and other offsets; check the account note and our article on refund delays and offsets (internal link).
  • Payment mismatch or missing payment: gather bank receipts and payment confirmations, then contact the IRS or your tax preparer to resolve.

Professional tips I use with clients

  • Check your account monthly during filing season and after large transactions (like selling investments or changing jobs).
  • Keep copies of confirmation numbers for payments. If you set up automatic withdrawals, monitor your bank the week the payment is due.
  • Use the account to avoid duplicate payments: if a payment is stuck in pending status, verify before paying again.

Security and privacy

  • The IRS portal uses strict identity checks; the agency warns against phishing. Always start at https://www.irs.gov/account and do not follow links from unsolicited emails. (See IRS Payments and Security guidance.)

When to contact a professional or the IRS

  • If your online balance doesn’t match your records after checking transcripts and payment proofs, contact the IRS or a licensed tax professional. If you are in an installment agreement and can’t pay, get help to avoid levy actions.

Helpful links and further reading

Authority and sources

Professional disclaimer

This article provides general information for educational purposes and does not substitute for personalized tax advice. For complex or account-specific issues, consult a CPA, enrolled agent, or the IRS directly.